Regulate Dog Tethering in Minnesota

 

The purpose of this bill is to promote the humane treatment and responsible tethering of dogs in Minnesota by setting

clear standards for restraint, shelter, and care. It aims to prevent neglect and cruelty caused by prolonged or unsafe

tethering practices, while ensuring that animal welfare enforcement officers have the proper training, resources, and

funding to effectively uphold these standards and protect companion animals across the state.

 

Studies show that tethered dogs are more likely to become aggressive or attempt escape because of frustration and lack

of social contact (Animal Legal & Historical Center, 2024). Unsafe restraints can cause dogs to break free, leading to

traffic accidents, bite incidents, and fear in neighborhoods. Experts in Minnesota have also noted that inconsistent

enforcement of animal control laws increases these risks, making stronger statewide standards and officer training

essential (Minnesota Bar Association, 2023).

Statistics show that in Minneapolis, dog and cat bite reports rose by approximately 30% in 2024, with around 600

incidents so far compared to about 480 in 2023. Additional reporting from the Minnesota Daily and Axios Twin Cities

supports these trends.

 

Domestic canine: A dog.

Tether: A device or rope used to tie or restrain a dog to a fixed object. It must prevent injury and allow movement.

Adequate Shelter: A clean, dry structure that protects a dog from rain, snow, wind, heat, and cold. It must allow the

dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Proper Tether: A tether at least three times the dog’s body length that does not use choke or prong collars. It must

prevent strangulation and allow free movement without tangling.

Owner/Custodian: Any person responsible for the care, housing, or supervision of a dog. This includes temporary

caretakers.

Animal Welfare Enforcement Officer (AWEF): A trained officer responsible for enforcing animal welfare and tethering

laws. They may conduct inspections and issue penalties.

 

Funding for paying and training Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers (AWEF) will come from the Minnesota State Treasury.

This funding will be managed and allocated by the Minnesota Department of Management and Budget (MMB).

 

This Act may be enforced by local law enforcement officers, animal control officers, and/or humane agents.

• First violation: Petty misdemeanor. Fine up to $300, a written warning, and mandatory completion of an animal-care

education course approved by the Board of Animal Health.

• Second violation (within 1 year): Misdemeanor. Fine up to $1,000 and/or 90 days imprisonment. Mandatory inspection

follow-up within 30 days.

• Third or subsequent violation: Gross misdemeanor. Fine up to $3,000 and/or 1 year imprisonment. The court may order

temporary or permanent revocation of dog-ownership privileges for up to two years.

 

This Act shall take effect on January 1st, 2027.